Last month, two tech related drinking events debuted in Columbus just one day apart. Startup Drinks had about 25 people show up. IT Martini however had over 200 people attend. By all accounts, both events were a success. Startup Drinks was promoted purly by blogging and word of mouth. I’m hoping that cSUDs dos (as it’s now dubbed, e.g. Columbus Startup Drinks) will have more folks given more awareness and the fact that I announced it to the people at Startup Weekend Columbus. IT Martini however, seemed to have more corporate support, and was pushed by TechColumbus and perhaps corporate sponsors. There is room for both Startup Drinks and IT Martini in Columbus. I am however a bit disappointed that IT Martini sees fit to charge $25 to attend its event. You have some sponsors. Aren’t they helping pay freight? Why not let folks meet for free. I asked the question of the IT Martini folks, and they responded:

To answer Alvin’s question above: there are two simple reasons why IT Martini Hour isn’t free to the public. First off, there are costs that need to be covered! Secondly, the event is about more than a ‘good time’, it’s about IT Professional development. Keeping the general public at bay provides an IT Martini Hour experience that’s focused exclusively on IT Professionals. And keep in mind, we work hard with our IT Community Partners to make the event low cost, and free, for as many IT Professionals as possible.

Fair enough. But I think I’ll pass on IT Martini as long as it continues to charge. Rather, I’ll go to Startup Drinks.

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Welcome to the270. If this is your first time here and think, "what a douchebag", well that's my intent. To spur conversation. To drive my agenda to make Columbus a better place. If you are the subject of my douchebaggery, please do not take offense. I mean no harm. Leave a comment. And we'll discuss.
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